Torn Labrum Surgery – 10 Things You Need to Know

Labrum tear is a very common sports injury of the shoulder cartilage and more rarely of the hip cartilage. These types of injuries have a tendency to not heal well on their own and very often will require you to have a torn labrum surgery done. If you suffered a hip injury, a torn hip labrum surgery might be recommended for you.

1. Torn labrum surgery is recommended only if your doctor feels your labrum tear will not heal properly or your shoulder will not gain adequate stability on its own. Magnetic resonance imaging or CAT scans are used to confirm the diagnosis of a labrum tear.

2. Preliminary arthroscopic surgical examination might be necessary if the results of the MRI or CAT scans tests were insufficient for the doctor. Your doctor will make a small incision on your shoulder to insert a small video camera to assess the condition of the injury and to decide which type of surgery you might be requiring.

3. In a case if the extent of your injury is not significant, your doctor might opt for an arthroscopic surgery performed with a use of a thin device with a video camera attached. Through the arthroscopic torn labrum surgery, your doctor will remove any torn tissue debris and try reattaching torn labrum tissue to the bone using small anchors.

4. Sometimes, if the labrum tear is significant and arthroscopic torn labrum surgery can not correct all the problems, you doctor will go for an open type of surgery. Open torn labrum surgery in some cases is associated with better final results because it provides better access and visibility for your doctor to perform repairs.

6. Arthroscopic and open types of surgeries have advantages and disadvantages depending on the final result that needs to be achieved. Arthroscopic torn labrum surgery is less invasive and requires less recovery time, though it can only fix minor injuries. Open surgery will cause more scarring and a more likelihood of an infection but better final results might be achieved.

7. Any surgery carries some risk of complications like infection, damage to the nerve or blood vessels. Being on the lookout for possible complication signs like fever, increased swelling and bleeding will help you identify a problem in its tracks.

8. For the first few weeks following torn labrum surgery you will be wearing a sling to keep shoulder joint immobilized to allow for better healing. Sleeping in a semi-reclined position might also allow you to get comfortable and get a good night sleep. Pain medications will be prescribed to you to help you cope immediately after surgery.

9. Physical therapy exercises are one of the most important factors on your road to a full surgery recovery. Anywhere from 2 to 3 weeks after surgery you can start performing light motion and strengthening exercises.

10. Torn labrum and rotator cuff surgery recovery can take from 2 to 6 months depending on the extent of the injury. Following a recovery exercise regimen is a crucial part of your recover and will allow you to regain a full level of joint motion and strengthen muscles for proper shoulder stability.

Disclaimer

The information provided herein is intended for a general knowledge only and is not a substitute for medical advice or a treatment for specific medical conditions. You assume full responsibility for how you choose to use this information. Always consult with your doctor or other professional healthcare provider for a medical advice.